No, it’s not just because your plate will be Instagram-ready.
🌈 “Eating the rainbow” is a piece of nutritional advice often use with little ones, but it’s vital for ALL of us!
Every produce item contains its own makeup of micronutrients (meaning nutrients other than proteins, fats, and carbohydrates).
The color of plant-based food represents what phytonutrients are inside. Deep, vibrant fruits and vegetables get their colors from antioxidants that support overall health like carotenoids and flavonoids.
PURPLE & BLUE
Purple and blue fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins and resveratrol.
These nutrients are specifically known for their cancer-fighting and anti-aging properties. They’re also great for keeping your brain sharp!
EAT: red cabbage, purple cauliflower, blackberries, blueberries, eggplant, grapes, prunes, and plums.
GREEN
Important nutrients you’ll find in green veggies and fruits include lutein, isoflavones, vitamin K1, isothiocyanates, folate, and sulforaphane.
Green produce supports mental health, immune function, cardiovascular health, strong bones, healthy pregnancy, and overall health.
EAT: kale, spinach, broccoli, avocados, asparagus, green bell peppers, limes, zucchini… the list goes on!
YELLOW & ORANGE
Yellow foods frequently contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are great for the skin, eyes, brain, and heart.
Orange foods often have these nutrients plus beta-carotene, which is super important for good vision. Some also contains curcuminoids, which are powerful disease-fighting antioxidants.
EAT: turmeric, oranges, mangoes, grapefruit, carrots, sweet potatoes, bananas, yellow bell peppers, pears, lemons, pineapple, and golden apples.
RED
Anthocyanidins and lycopene are two antioxidants found richly in red fruits and veggies.
These protect your heart and brain, improve your immune system, and may also reduce your risk of cancer.
EAT: beets, red bell peppers, apples, cranberries, grapes, cherries, tomatoes, plums, pomegranates, raspberries, and strawberries.
What’s your favorite color? 🌈
